The female breast changes over time; pregnancies, breastfeeding, significant weight loss, the normal aging process, and even gravity can lead to sagging, a change in shape, and a loss of firmness. This can be corrected with a breast lift, also known as a mastopexy. The procedure restores a harmonious, firm breast shape by removing excess skin, repositioning the nipple-areola complex higher on the breast, and reshaping and redistributing the breast tissue. In certain cases, in addition to a lift, breast augmentation using implants or the patient’s own fat may be necessary to achieve the desired result (augmentation mastopexy).
Key Points at a Glance
Scar Care Starting at 3 Weeks
The Consultation for a Breast Lift
As a plastic surgeon, Dr. Lüdi specializes in breast surgery and will be happy to advise you personally, woman to woman, on the subject of breast lift in her clinic in Basel.
Before a breast lift, two detailed consultations typically take place. It is very important to us that you are well-informed about the procedure, that all your questions are answered, and that your wishes are taken into account. Dr. Lüdi will discuss the surgical technique and the exact incision lines used to lift the breasts, as well as potential risks, complications, and postoperative care. We’d also be happy to show you before-and-after results of breast lifts.
The Breast Lift Procedure in Basel
On the day of surgery
On the day of surgery, Dr. Lüdi prepares a photo documentation before the operation and makes the exact markings on the breast. You will then be prepared for the upcoming operation and accompanied to the operating room.
Breast Lift - How Can the Breasts Be Lifted?
A breast lift can be performed on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia at our clinic in Basel and takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. The incision typically runs around the areola, vertically downward into the breast crease (vertical incision), and, if indicated, horizontally along the inframammary fold (T-incision). The nipple-areola complex is then repositioned, excess skin is removed, and the glandular tissue is redistributed and reshaped to create an aesthetically pleasing, firm breast contour.
Immediately after a breast lift
After your mastopexy, you can recover in our beautiful patient rooms with a view of the Rhine, where our team will take care of you. After another checkup by Dr. Lüdi, you can have a companion pick you up and return home the same day.
The aftercare
- The first follow-up visit by Dr. Lüdi takes place the very next day.
- For 6 weeks, you should wear a well-fitting sports bra during the day and at night.
- We recommend a grace period of 6 weeks. During this time, you should avoid sports, carrying and lifting loads and sleeping in the prone position as much as possible.
- Pain after surgery is generally mild and can be easily managed with common pain relievers.
- Scar care can be started from 3 weeks after breast lift.
Risks and Complications Associated with a Breast Lift
In principle, any breast surgery carries certain risks; however, a breast lift is generally a low-risk procedure, and complications are very rare. In addition to the general risks associated with surgery (e.g., bruising, wound healing problems), there is a rare risk of infection or postoperative bleeding. Sensory disturbances in the nipple area usually subside on their own after a certain period of time. In a few cases, a secondary procedure to correct widened scars may be necessary; this can be performed under local anesthesia. During the consultation, Dr. Lüdi will discuss the possible risks and complications with you in detail and will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
Cost of a Breast Lift in Basel
The cost of a breast lift depends on your preferences, the type and extent of the surgery, and the materials required. During a consultation, Dr. Lüdi will develop a treatment plan tailored specifically to you and provide you with a personalized cost estimate.
As a rule, health insurance does not cover the costs of a breast lift, as it is an aesthetic procedure.
Dr. Simona Lüdi, M.D., is a board-certified specialist in plastic, reconstructive, and aesthetic surgery (FMH, EBOPRAS)
She grew up in the Basel region, studied medicine at the University of Basel, and has many years of surgical experience in the field of cosmetic surgery, with a focus on cosmetic breast surgery.
A breast lift requires precise surgical planning and a thorough understanding of breast anatomy. At the Zum Goldenen Schnitt Clinic in Basel, the procedure is performed in the clinic’s own state-of-the-art operating room.
Dr. Lüdi provides personalized, honest, and individualized advice—woman to woman—with a focus on natural and harmonious results.